Coronavirus (COVID-19): How Is It Spread From Person To Person?
Published: March 30, 2020 · Last reviewed on this site: 2026-10-30
This answer may be out of date. It was published over 3 years ago. Health guidance changes — check with a doctor or trusted adult.
The question
Dear TeenHealthFX,
How is Covid 19 transferred from person to to person?
Signed: TeenHealthFX
The answer
Coronavirus (COVID-19) is caused by the virus SAR-CoV-2. It can be transmitted from person to person through air droplets from breathing, coughing, and/or sneezing and being in close contact with someone who may be infected. This is why the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is emphasizing the importance of practicing social distancing (the 6 foot rule).
It may be possible to get COVID-19 from surfaces. The virus can live in the air for up to 3 hours, on cardboard for up to 24 hours, and metal/plastic for up to 3 days. It is important to practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands throughout the day and disinfecting surfaces that may be contaminated.
We recently answered another question on COVID-19 explaining the facts. If you have more questions, please feel free to go to the CDC site as well as TeenHealthFX for reliable and up-to-date information.